CoastalSouth-Facing

CERULEAN

Jotun · 0576

The Analysis

Cerulean is a mid-toned, muted blue-green that absorbs a fair amount of light due to its 22.51 LRV. Because it is darker, it tends to make walls feel closer, creating an intimate, cozy atmosphere rather than an expansive one.

It works best as a feature wall or a grounding element in a room with plenty of white trim. While it can be used on all four walls in a study or library, it is generally too heavy for small, windowless spaces unless you intend to lean into a moody aesthetic.

LRV 23

History & Origin

This color leans toward a modern, transitional aesthetic. It lacks the chalky, dusty quality of traditional Victorian palettes, making it a fresh choice for contemporary homes.

Undertonecool
FamilyGreen

How to Use It

Pair this with warm oak or walnut wood tones to soften the blue, or use matte black hardware for a sharp, high-contrast look. It thrives in well-lit areas where the light can reveal the subtle green undertones, preventing the room from feeling like a dark box.

The Mood

This shade promotes a sense of focus and stability, making it an excellent choice for a home office or a restful bedroom. It feels grounded and professional, providing a calm backdrop that doesn't feel overly stimulating or sterile.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Lagoon

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6480

  • Mayo Teal

    Benjamin Moore · CW-570

  • Surf Green

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6473

  • SCOOTER

    Jotun · 5397

  • Tasmanian Sea

    Behr · S440-5

  • Shenandoah

    Benjamin Moore · 684

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural